Best Cut Resistant Chainsaw Pants – Choice and Reviews

Are you looking for the best anti-cut chainsaw pants? Read my reviews, find out the prices and the guide to choosing.

Whether you are a lumberjack or a professional gardener, it doesn’t matter: you must always protect yourself from possible accidents that could happen when handling dangerous tools such as chainsaws. After telling you about the anti-cut gloves for chainsaws, therefore, today I will focus my attention on an equally important garment: trousers. The protection system is all in all similar, but requires proper investigation, also due to the delicacy of the area.

What are cut resistant trousers and how do they work?

First, I want to make a distinction between the trousers and the anti-cut chainsaw suit. The latter, in fact, also include a section in fabric to protect the abdominal area with braces, and these are real work dungarees. Naturally, the aforementioned protection is of a basic level, therefore it does not require the presence of any padding with synthetic fibers and with high tensile strength. These fibers, in fact, are found only and exclusively in the leg area, and their operation is really very simple to understand.

To give you a concrete example: if the saw bar slips on your knee, it will puncture the fabric of the trousers and “stick” against the plastic fibers that come out of the cut. In other words, the chain will slide winding itself around the synthetic filaments, which will block the pinion, stopping the saw from sliding. In summary, the fibers will be able to trigger the inertial brake of the chainsaw, blocking its rotation in a few hundredths of a second. In this video you can clearly see the blocking fibers at work when the trousers are punctured by the chainsaw:

Of course, there are different levels of protection (classes 1, 2 and 3), each of which is designed on the basis of a certain sliding speed of the chain. Secondly, it is absolutely essential that the trousers are certified and comply with the UNI EN 381-5: 1996 standard: otherwise, you will know for sure that they will be simple work trousers without synthetic fiber filling.

There is another fundamental aspect to consider, and it concerns the type of model. We have already seen a first distinction concerning the classes, established on the basis of the garment’s ability to withstand a certain maximum speed of the chain. There is also a second classification, this time with 3 letters of the alphabet, and it is the type A, the B and the C: in this case each category indicates the presence or absence of the filamentous protection in certain areas of the leg. Do not worry, because in the guide to the choice I will deepen each of these aspects.

Best chainsaw pants

1. Oregon 295435 Yukon A Class 1 Trousers

This pair of Oregon lumberjack pants in my opinion can be considered among the best ever. It is light enough, very comfortable to wear, the sizes listed in the data sheet are precise to the millimeter and offers an excellent degree of protection. It is in fact a class 1 model, capable of withstanding the cutting of chainsaws with a maximum speed of the chain equal to 20 meters per second. It is a type A: it means that the padding in synthetic filaments is present only in the front area of ​​the leg.

• Class: 1 (up to 20 m / s)
• Guy: A (front protection)
• Layers: 5 in total

The lack of lateral protection prevents the femoral artery from being defended, but in return the model offers superior lightness and greater comfort. The sizes are many and suitable for any need, and comfort is maximum as well as versatility. In fact, you can use it both if you are a lumberjack or a woodcutter, or if you have made gardening a profession or a hobby. The outer layer of the trousers is made of bielastic polyester, while there are 5 protective layers of fabric.

Note: online there is also a version of the Yukon of the Oregon with braces, while the degree of protection is the same as the classic trousers.

As for the other technical characteristics, it complies with the EN ISO 11393-2 certification, has two front pockets with velcro closure, and 1 rear pocket with zip. Its performances (which I hope you never discover on your skin) are excellent: the Oregon pants block the chain in a few hundredths of a second, without causing even a cut to the skin. They are very comfortable to wear, breathable and rather elastic, so they accompany the movements well. Finally, they have an elastic waistband, but in summer and in hot weather they tend to make your legs sweat a lot.

2. WOODSafe Class 1 Type A Dungarees

If you are looking for a chainsaw anti-cut suit, then you should consider this product from WOODSafe. It is in fact a real dungarees, with protection for the abdomen (not padded) and with braces. As for the technical data, we are faced with a classic class 1 model, therefore able to oppose the cuts of chainsaws with a maximum sliding speed of 20 meters per second. The type is A, consequently the padding in synthetic filaments are found only on the front area of ​​the leg, consequently they protect the thigh and not the side or the back area.

• Class: 1 (up to 20 m / s)
• Guy: A (front protection)
• Template: overalls

Also know that these are regularly approved garments, and that there are different sizes, so the fit is not and will never be a problem (because the measurements are faithful). Secondly, the WOODSafe anti-cut chainsaw trousers also have a ruler pocket, a front pocket on the harness and a back pocket. They are very comfortable to wear, due to the presence of an elastic fabric at the groin, and have a high-waisted structure to protect the kidneys.

In addition, the elastic straps can be adjusted and the same applies to the waist, while the pockets are protected by a reinforced fabric and very difficult to pierce. One of the most interesting notes is the presence of yellow and reflective sections of fabric, so you can work peacefully even in poor visibility conditions. What else? The materials are in mesh (cotton and polyester), while the filament padding – as mentioned – is present only on the thighs, and the price is really competitive.

3. Stihl Function Ergo Zuava Class 1 Type A

Stihl is a company that requires few introductions, and is known for the excellent quality of its products. The Function Ergo chainsaw pant confirms that its fame is absolutely deserved. It is in fact a truly robust model capable of lasting in the long term, obviously equipped with all the appropriate certifications, and an excellent compromise for hobbyists and professionals in wood cutting and pruning. This means that it is a class 1 and type A model: in short, it has been designed with padding on the front of the leg, capable of withstanding a maximum cutting speed of 20 m / s.

• Class: 1 (up to 20 m / s)
• Guy: A (front protection)
• Template: classic trousers

Secondly, the Stihl Function Ergo Zuava have reflective orange plates, are elastic and have reinforced knee pads. As if this were not enough, there is no shortage of pockets to insert objects and tools, and there is an elastic waistband with loops to possibly insert a belt. When put to the test, they ensure an almost immediate blocking of the chainsaw chain: the filamentary fibers are in fact able to activate the inertial brake of the bar, blocking the spool after being dragged by the teeth. As for comfort, we are faced with a pair of very breathable and fairly light trousers, which allows the skin to breathe and body moisture to escape.

Note: if you are interested, there is also a version of the Function bib model, with identical technical data (therefore Class 1 model A).

In summary, they won’t become an oven after hours of heavy use, although clearly in the summer you may experience some discomfort. The weight is 1.4 kilograms, and there are buttons to connect the suspenders, in case you prefer them to the belt. They are elastic and therefore quite adherent, they ensure full mobility and you can wash them, but without exceeding 60 degrees. In conclusion, even if they have a high average price, it is a real gem in the field of personal protective equipment.

4. Portwest CH11 Pants CH11BKRXXL

If you haven’t found a pair of chainsaw pants yet, even if it seems difficult to me, I suggest you take a look at this model from Portwest. Also in this case we are faced with a classic class 1 trousers, therefore with a maximum effective protection for chainsaws with a chain sliding speed of 20 meters per second.

• Class: 1 (up to 20 m / s)
• Guy: A (front protection)
• Layers: 9 in total

Furthermore, being a class A, it guarantees the presence of synthetic fiber padding on the front area of ​​the leg, with an overlap that extends laterally to the left and internally to the right for about 5 centimeters. They are very comfortable and quite light, elastic and therefore wearable without excessive constraints, since they simplify movement. The fabric is water repellent and breathable, and is made of mesh (polyester mixed with cotton), while the internal filament fibers are made of polyester and polypropylene.

In terms of comfort it is really difficult to find reliable competitors: let’s say that we are on the level of the previous ones, as shown by the price in line with the averages. Secondly, it is appropriate to underline the presence of two side pockets, a back pocket with zip, and loops at the waist to insert the belt. There are also some reflective orange sections, while the layers are even 9. Returning to the safety factor, know that these anti-cut chainsaw pants have all the necessary certifications, so you can wear them with the utmost peace of mind.

5. Husqvarna Classic 20 m / s Class 1

I could not close by reviewing a Husqvarna model, in my opinion one of the best companies in the gardening and forestry PPE sector. This is the classic model, therefore the least expensive of the company and also the most basic. The technical data are not very different from the lumberjack trousers seen so far, since we are dealing with a class 1 and type A product: in other words, it has the protection in filamentous fibers only on the frontal area of ​​the legs, with slight lateral excursion of a few centimeters, and is compatible with a chain with a maximum speed of 20 meters per second.

• Class: 1 (up to 20 m / s)
• Guy: A (front protection)
• Template: classic trousers

There is talk of a model with anti-tear fabric and suitable above all for pruning, equipped with side and back pockets, and with buttons to use it also together with the suspenders. Alternatively, you can adjust the size of the waist with a belt, as there are traditional belt loops. What are the other most important features? These Husqvarna pants are very comfortable and well padded, they weigh little, have a water-repellent and breathable fabric, and being elastic they allow you to move without problems of agility.

It is of course an approved and certified product, and it is also very reliable, thanks to the external mesh fabric (cotton and polyester). To ensure better breathability there are also special adjustable rear zips, which are used to increase the air flow inside the pants. Finally, they have a reinforced hem near the contact area with the shoes, they are not afraid of thorns and brambles, they have sock-holding buttons and a reflective orange section.

How to choose the anti-cut trousers for chainsaws

1. Levels and classes of protection

It is time to begin to investigate the most important aspect of all, namely the protection classes. As I have anticipated several times, there are three in total and they are 1, 2 and 3. Each class indicates the presence of an internal padding in synthetic filaments capable of resisting a chainsaw bar, which slides at a certain full speed.

• Class 1: the trousers are able to protect the legs from being cut within a maximum chain sliding speed of 20 meters per second (m / s).

• Class 2: in this case the anti-cut protection level rises, since the leg can withstand a chainsaw with a maximum speed of 24 m / s.

• Class 3: class 3 is the most advanced, to the point that it will allow the padding to “entangle” the chain of a chainsaw with a maximum speed of 28 m / s.

Always remember to check that the wording confirming compliance with the UNI EN 381-5: 1996 standard is present, that is, the one designed for anti-cut clothing. Usually the class is specified inside a label, shaped like a shield and with a chainsaw icon inside it. Consequently, if you don’t find it, I recommend that you avoid buying that product, as it is likely not to comply with industry regulations.

2. Types and protected areas

The choice of the class is fundamental, but so is the study of the type of trousers you are about to buy. I anticipated that in this case the distinction is made by referring to 3 distinct letters of the alphabet: the A, the B and the C. Each letter indicates a certain type of model of trousers, with certain areas protected by the padding with filaments in synthetic materials. Again, it is better to investigate the matter further.

• Type A: the least advanced. In this case, the filamentous protection made of synthetic fibers is found only on the front area of ​​the leg.

• Type B: similar to class A but less comfortable, due to a more massive protection. The fiber padding, in fact, in addition to the front area also covers the inside of the left leg extending by 50 millimeters, in such a way as to protect the femoral artery.

• Type C: this is the most advanced class ever. In this case, in fact, the plastic fiber filling covers the entire circumference of the leg, thus offering all-round protection of the lower limbs.

I talked about comfort and I didn’t do it by chance, since a class B or C cut-resistant trousers for chainsaws are less comfortable and heavier than type A. The reason is simple to understand: being more padded, these models weigh more and allow less freedom in terms of movement. In addition, advanced padding can become uncomfortable in very hot weather because it prevents the skin from perspiring properly, thus increasing sweating of the legs.

Personally I believe that the best compromise are the type A and class 1 trousers, especially if you do not have special needs. Also due to the fact that, being lighter, they are much more comfortable and allow you more freedom of movement. Then it is clear that if you use a professional pruning chainsaw with high sliding speed of the chain, at that point you will want to opt for a higher degree of protection.

3. Materials and number of layers

Generally the outer fabric is made of bielastic polyester, waterproof but at the same time breathable. It is also an excellent choice because of its elasticity, which will give you the possibility to work comfortably, without feeling too “forced”. Other rather frequent options are mesh fabrics (cotton mixed with synthetic fibers such as the aforementioned polyester). However, consider that each manufacturer could choose a different type of external fabric: some even adopt patented solutions, able to resist linear and transversal cutting more effectively.

To give you a concrete example, Husqvarna (one of the leading companies in the sector) offers different models in reflex cordura with reflective yarn, therefore usable even in conditions of poor visibility. The braided cordura, on the other hand, is more robust and is able to offer greater resistance to tearing. In addition, it has an extra layer which makes it more waterproof than other materials. One of the lighter fabrics is 4-way stretch, usually used in areas of the pants that require more flexibility.

As for the fibers that will twist around the chain, in case of cutting, the latter are often made of nylon. However, we can find more advanced solutions, as in the case of filamentary fibers that also exploit materials such as kevlar (aramid melange or aramidic fiber) and prolar. However, consider that the composition of the fibers is very varied, and in some cases, in addition to kevlar and nylon, the filaments also integrate cordura. Finally, sometimes there are also Teflon finishes on the ankles.

As for the layers, usually it starts from a minimum of 3 up to a maximum of 8. Know that a greater number of layers obviously increases the degree of protection of the anti-cut chainsaw suit or trousers, but also increases the weight and therefore is less comfortable to wear .

4. Technical characteristics of the trousers

Know that each manufacturer could add a few extras to their chainsaw anti-cut pants models. I’m talking about, for example, the hooks to fix the hems to the shoes, or the ventilation hinges on the back (adjustable). In addition, you may find other features such as the aforementioned braces in the bib models, the reinforcement on the knee pads, the side pockets, the special pockets (such as the tool holders and the candle key holder). It does not end here, because in the list I also include the belt loops, and the elastic waistband with adjustable band. As for the pockets, usually the front ones have a Velcro closure system, while the back ones have the classic zip.

5. Sizes and measurements

Obviously, when it comes to clothing, you must always pay attention to the size you are about to buy, to find a model that can be said to be really comfortable. Generally the fit of these pants is a bit looser, so you shouldn’t have any problems selecting a comfortable model that fits your measurements. Whatever happens, if they are a little loose you can fasten them at the waist with a belt, and thus avoid the risk of them slipping. In any case, in the technical data sheet of each trousers you will find all the most important measures: that is the circumference at the waist, and that of the leg.

• Size S (42-44): the waist circumference ranges from 78 to 82 cm, while that of the leg measures 80 cm.

• Size M (46-48): waist circumference from 83 to 87 cm, leg circumference from 81 cm.

• Size L (50-52): waist circumference from 88 to 92 cm, leg circumference from 82 cm.

• Size XL (54-56): waist circumference from 93 to 97 cm, leg circumference from 83 cm.

• Size XXL (58-60): waist circumference from 98 to 102 cm, leg circumference from 84 cm.

• Size XXXL (62-64): waist circumference from 103 to 107 cm, leg circumference from 84 cm.

Always remember that the measurements of chainsaw clothing are indicative, as the fit may vary from manufacturer to manufacturer. Of course, trousers are no exception, and the same goes for the cut resistant jackets and for the aforementioned gloves.

Other important considerations

I would like to go back to the materials, since they have quite particular characteristics. We have already seen some of them, such as breathability and waterproofing, since they are water repellent. In reality, these peculiarities allow a pair of anti-cut trousers for chainsaws to resist even oil and fuel stains. Secondly, the fabric is also capable of resisting heat, and the risks of wear, rubbing and tearing.

Before saying goodbye, I would like to point out another really important fact: maybe you already know it, or maybe you don’t, but know that every personal protective equipment for chainsaws has an expiration date, after which you will have to change the garment with a new model. This is due to the fact that synthetic fibers tend to wear out over time and with the use of trousers, and to lose the tensile strength properties that make them so effective.

Finally, it is clear that in the event of an accident (and therefore a cut of the garment), the trousers can no longer be used, and you will have to replace them with a new product.